Data communications system for a vehicle

ABSTRACT

A data communications system is disclosed for a vehicle having an exterior surface and an interior space, the data communications system including a support frame positionable within the interior space of the vehicle. A case is movable between an open and a closed position and includes a mounting system, the case mountable to the exterior surface of the vehicle via the mounting system. The system includes a power supply and a router device communicated with the power supply, one or more of the power supply and the router device mounted to the support frame. An antenna array is mounted within the case, the antenna array communicated with the router device, the antenna array including at least two cellular antennas.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/873,836 filed on Jan. 17, 2018 entitled DATA COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMFOR A VEHICLE, which is a continuation in part application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/587,167 filed on May 4, 2017 (now U.S.Pat. No. 10,003,124), entitled DATA COMMUNICATIONS CASE HAVING ANINTERNAL ANTENNA ARRAY, which is a continuation of and claims thebenefit of and priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/379,219filed on Dec. 14, 2016 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,680,208), entitled DATACOMMUNICATIONS CASE HAVING AN INTERNAL ANTENNA ARRAY, which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/304,905filed Mar. 7, 2016 entitled DATA COMMUNICATIONS CASE HAVING AN INTERNALANTENNA ARRAY and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/395,394 filed Sep. 16, 2016 entitled DATA COMMUNICATIONS CASE HAVINGAN INTERNAL ANTENNA ARRAY, and also claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 62/447,374 filed Jan. 17, 2017, entitledDATA COMMUNICATIONS CASE HAVING AN INTERNAL ANTENNA ARRAY, each of theabove noted applications being incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties.

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialthat is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the reproduction of the patent document or the patentdisclosure, as it appears in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office patentfile or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING OR COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING APPENDIX

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This present disclosure generally relates to the field of datacommunications.

More specifically, the present disclosure relates to facilitatingvarious types of communications, including secure, high-speed datacommunications, and voice communications when current end user devicesmay detect that little or no wireless or voice signal is available.Network failures and slow data communications occur for a myriad ofreasons—from crowded networks to natural disasters—leading tofrustrations in a society that is growing ever dependent on the abilityto transmit and receive communications, including secure, high-speeddata. Further, obtaining data and voice communication in remote areaswithout readily available power supplies, internet connectivity, and/orwhere cellular coverage is weak or non-existent can be difficult if notimpossible, which can be especially undesirable for public safetyofficials and others that often rely on data and voice communicationsfor work projects in rural environments and in disaster reliefsituations.

Conventional data communication units are large, bulky, and difficult totransport, and thus are typically retained in a generally fixed orpermanent location. Additionally, conventional, portable antennas aretypically located on the outside of a data communications unit, creatinga cumbersome device that is not aesthetically pleasing, where theantennas are freely exposed to external wear, tear and breakage.

What is needed then are improvements to data communication units.

BRIEF SUMMARY

This Brief Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key features oressential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended tobe used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subjectmatter.

One aspect of the present disclosure is a data communications system fora vehicle having an exterior surface and an interior space, the datacommunications system including a support frame positionable within theinterior space of the vehicle. A case is movable between an open and aclosed position and includes a mounting system, the case mountable tothe exterior surface of the vehicle via the mounting system. The systemincludes a power supply and a router device communicated with the powersupply, one or more of the power supply and the router device mounted tothe support frame. An antenna array is mounted within the case, theantenna array communicated with the router device, the antenna arrayincluding at least two cellular antennas.

In some embodiments, the router device and the power supply can bepositioned on the support frame. In some embodiments, at least onewireless antenna can also be mounted to the support frame andelectrically communicated with the router device. In some embodiments,the mounting system can include at least one case rail mounted to thecase and at least one vehicle rail mountable to the vehicle, the caserail and the vehicle rail securable together to mount the case to thevehicle.

The data communications system of the present disclosure can be utilizedin one application in various vertical markets for failover when thereis a power outage or the Wide Area Network (WAN) is down. The datacommunications system of the present disclosure can also be used inareas where cellular coverage may appear to be weak or even non-existentin order to amplify or increase the wireless or voice signal detected byan end user device, such as a phone, tablet, or laptop. The datacommunications system of the present disclosure may also be deployed forevents, such as sales meetings, sporting, entertainment or news events,etc. The data communications system of the present disclosure can alsobe used for military, police, fire, rescue, or other combat and/oremergency vehicles.

One objective of the present disclosure is to provide a portable dataand voice communications system for a vehicle that allows for reliablewireless and cellular communications and/or GPS location services whenpower outages or signal disruptions occur.

Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a portable,data and voice communications system for a vehicle that allows forreliable wireless and cellular communications and/or GPS locationservices in areas where signal strength is weak or nonexistent.

Another objective of the present disclosure is to allow for greatermobility and durability for portable data and voice communicationssystems. In conventional portable data and voice communications systems,antennas have not been housed inside protective carrying cases and thushave not been capable of withstanding significant impact.

Numerous other objects, advantages, and features of the presentdisclosure will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art upon areview of the following description of certain embodiments, includingthe drawings and figures attached hereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a data communicationsapparatus of the present disclosure with a lid of the apparatus in anopen position to provide access to internal components of the apparatus.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the data communications apparatus ofFIG. 1 with the lid in the closed position.

FIG. 3 is a detailed cross section view of another embodiment of a datacommunications case of the present disclosure having hollow casesidewalls, the apparatus having an antenna mounted to a mounting bracketand the mounting bracket adhered to an inner side of a lid of theapparatus.

FIG. 4 is a detailed perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 showingan annular gasket positioned on a base of the apparatus.

FIG. 5 is a cross section view of the apparatus of FIG. 2 showing theannular gasket compressed between the lid and the base of the apparatus.

FIG. 6 is a cross section view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 with the lidof the apparatus in an open position.

FIG. 7 is a cross section view of the apparatus of FIG. 6 with the lidof the apparatus in a closed position.

FIG. 8 is a cross section view of the base of FIG. 1 showing one or morefastening straps adhered to an inner side of the case and secured aroundcorresponding internal components of the apparatus.

FIG. 9 is a front view of the apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a datacommunications apparatus of the present disclosure having an antennaarray with multiple pairs of cellular antennas.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 11.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a datacommunications apparatus of the present disclosure having an antennaarray with multiple antennas contained within an antenna housing.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a datacommunications apparatus of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a partial cross-section view of another embodiment of a datacommunications apparatus of the present disclosure where a base of thecase has a charging port sized to receive the plug of an adapter torecharge the power source.

FIG. 15 is a partial cross-section view of the apparatus of FIG. 14 witha cap for the charging port in a closed position over the charging port.

FIG. 16 is a cross-section view of another embodiment of a datacommunications apparatus of the present disclosure including a secondouter protective case having multiple second case cushion foam layers.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a support frame for adata communications system of the present disclosure for a vehicle.

FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of the support frame of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is a right side view of the support frame of FIG. 17.

FIG. 20 is a left side view of the support frame of FIG. 17.

FIG. 21 is a top view of the support frame of FIG. 17.

FIG. 22 is a back elevation view of the support frame of FIG. 17.

FIG. 23 is a bottom perspective view of a case for a data communicationssystem of the present disclosure for a vehicle with a mounting system.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 23 in an openposition.

FIG. 25 is a side perspective view of the support frame of FIG. 17 andthe case of FIG. 23 mounted to a vehicle.

FIG. 26 is a side view of the case of FIG. 23 mounted to a vehicle viathe mounting system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While the making and using of various embodiments of the presentinvention are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated thatthe present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts thatare embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specificembodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways tomake and use the invention and do not delimit the scope of theinvention. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize numerousequivalents to the specific apparatus and methods described herein. Suchequivalents are considered to be within the scope of this invention andare covered by the claims.

In the drawings, not all reference numbers are included in each drawing,for the sake of clarity. Positional terms used herein such as “upper,”“lower,” “side,” “top,” “bottom,” etc. refer to the apparatus when inthe orientation shown in the drawing that is being referred to in theaccompanying description. A person of skill in the art will recognizethat the apparatus can assume different orientations when in use.

An embodiment of the data communications apparatus 10 containing variouscomponents is shown in FIG. 1. Apparatus 10 can include a case 12including a base 42 and a lid 44 connectable to base 42. Lid 44 can bemovable with respect to base 42 between an open position and a closedposition. In FIG. 1, lid 44 is shown pivotally connected to base 42 viahinge 38, such that lid 44 can rotate with respect to base 42 between anopen and a closed position. One or more latches or clasps 39 can securelid 44 to base 42 when lid 44 is in the closed positon, as shown in FIG.2. In other embodiments, lid 44 can be detachable from base 42 such thatlid 44 can be connectable on base 42 and secured thereto via two or morelatches or clasps 39 positioned around the periphery of case 12. Movinglid 44 from a closed position, as shown in FIG. 2, to an open position,as shown in FIG. 1, can provide a user access to the internal componentsof case 12. Case 12 can include a handle 46 which can be grasped by auser to facilitate carrying apparatus 10 and case 12.

In some embodiments, the sidewalls of case 12 can be a hollow structurehaving an inner and an outer shell as shown in FIG. 3. The outer andinner shells of case 12 can be made from any suitable material,including but not limited to polypropylene, which can help provideimpact resistance, waterproofing, crush-proofing, and dustproofingcharacteristics to case 12. The outer and inner shells of case 12 mayalso comprise various other polymers including polyethylene,high-density polyethylene, polyurethane, polyester, nylon, siliconerubber, polycarbonates, and various other polymers known in the art. Insome embodiments, case 12 can be a solid structure having a single,thicker shell, as shown in FIGS. 5-6. As shown in FIG. 6, case 12 caninclude an inner surface 13, which can include base inner surface 13 aand lid inner surface 13 b. Base inner surface 13 a can define a basecavity 15 a, and lid inner surface 13 b can define a lid cavity 15 b.Components contained within case 12 can be positioned in either basecavity 15 a or lid cavity 15 b.

In some embodiments, apparatus 10 can include an annular gasket 48positioned on case 42, shown in FIGS. 1 and 4-5. When lid 44 is in theclosed position, annular gasket 48 may be compressed between lid 44 andbase 42 to form an annular seal between base 42 and lid 44. The annularseal formed by annular gasket 48 can be a waterproof seal such that whenlid 44 is in a closed position, annular gasket 48 can help protect theinternal components of apparatus 10 from exposure to liquids, as well asdust and other potential contaminants. Annular gasket 48 can be madefrom a rubber or elastomer material, or any other suitable material forforming a seal between base 42 and lid 44. Annular gasket 48 can helpensure that pressure equalization within case 12 is maintained. In someembodiments, case 12 may include an automatic-pressure release valve 50.As apparatus 10 is operated, heat can be generated inside case 12 whichcan increase the pressure inside case 12. Pressure relief valve 50 canbe configured to sense or determine the pressure inside case 12, andautomatically open to release pressure within case 12 when the pressureexceeds a predetermined threshold.

In certain embodiments, case 12 meets or exceeds U.S. militaryspecifications for ruggedized equipment. For the embodiment shown inFIG. 1, the interior dimensions of case 12 are approximately 18.0-20.0inches in length by 12.0-14.0 inches in width by 6.0 to 8.0 inches inheight; and the exterior dimensions of case 12 are approximately19.0-21.0 inches in length by 15.0-17.0 inches in width by 7.0-9.0inches in height. For the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the weight of case12 when empty is approximately six to eight pounds. The size and weightof case 12 can be varied in different applications to increase ordecrease the size and weight of case 12 and apparatus 10 as desired fordifferent uses and to accommodate varying numbers of internal componentsas necessary. A case designed to be easily portable and easy totransport can be beneficial in various situations and applications, forinstance when used by emergency responders and other public safetyofficials who can conveniently transport apparatus 10 to disaster reliefareas or other remote areas without power, wireless service, and/orvoice service. The size and weight of case 12 and apparatus 10 can alsobe varied for business and sales persons that may travel frequently anddesire to have ready access to data and voice communicationscapabilities.

Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 6, apparatus 10 can include a routerdevice 14 secured within case 12, and a rechargeable wireless powersupply 24 secured within case 12. Router device 14 can selectivelyreceive power from power supply 24. Apparatus 10 can include an AC/DCadapter 16. Power supply 24 can be connected to adapter 16 and adapter16 can be plugged into an external power grid in order to recharge powersupply 24 between uses of apparatus 10, or while apparatus 10 is beingused and power supply 24 is depleted. In some embodiments, apparatus 10can include a second power source which can be a second standalone powersource such as a battery or load cell which can be connected to powersource 24. A second standalone power source can help prolong the usablelife of apparatus 10 when apparatus 10 is used in remote area or areaswithout access to a utility power grid. In some embodiments, the secondstandalone power source can be configured to provide multiple days ofadditional power to apparatus 10. In some embodiments, the secondexternal power source can be contained in its own, waterproof protectivecase such that the second standalone power source is protected asdescribed herein. Case 12 and the case for the second standalone powersource can be positioned side by side or on top of one another and thesecondary power source can be connected to power source 24.

A power switch 22, a main fuse 18, and an auxiliary fuse 20 can also besecured within case 12. Power switch 22 can be in electricalcommunication with power supply 24 and router device 14 and can beselectively toggled by a user to turn on apparatus 10 and supply powerfrom power supply 24 to router device 14. Main fuse 18 and auxiliaryfuse 20 can be utilized to power additional electrical devices ifdesired, for instance external lighting sources, which can be beneficialin times of power outages or in remote locations away from electricalpower grids. Power supply 24, router device 14, power switch 22, mainfuse 18 and auxiliary fuse 20 can be connected to one another by lowvoltage (approximately 9V to 36V) electrical wiring that is coated witha suitable insulating material (e.g., flame-retardant polyvinylchloride), having an approximate thickness of 0.007-0.011 inches. Aninsulated coating on the electrical wiring can help reduceelectromagnetic interference between the wiring, as well as with otherelectrical components of apparatus 10.

In certain embodiments, router device 14 comprises a built-in modem, acellular gateway, WAN/LAN switchable ports, and a wireless networkadapter. In certain embodiments, router device 14 is capable ofutilizing a firewall to block unauthorized access to communications sentand/or received via router device 14. In certain embodiments, routerdevice 14 is capable of enabling multiple, segmented wireless networks,which can either be public or private wireless networks. The multiplewireless networks may have separate and different service setidentifiers (SSIDs), each of which may be defined with passcodes. It isadvantageous that router device 14 be capable of encrypting datacommunications via various encryption protocols (e.g., encrypting WiFicommunications with WEP, WPA, WPA2, etc.). It may also be advantageousthat router device 14 be programmable to allow for load balancing.

Further, each wireless network may be capable of having multiple users.In some embodiments, each wireless network and SSID can simultaneouslyaccommodate multiple users. In some embodiments, router device 14 canenable multiple separate wireless networks and SSIDs, such thatapparatus 10 can accommodate additional users on the separate wirelessnetworks. Router device 14 may utilize either static or dynamic IPaddressing schemas. In certain embodiments, router device 14 may enable802.11 wireless connectivity utilizing distinct wireless frequencies(e.g., 2.4 GHz, 3.6 GHz, 4.9 GHz, 5 GHz, or 5.9 GHz). In certainembodiments, router device 14 may enable 802.11 wireless connectivity ina, b, g, n, and/or ac standard configurations. In certain embodiments,router device 14 may be programmed via a cloud based device manager. Incertain embodiments, router device 14 can include multiple cellulargateways such that router device 14 may accommodate and communicate withmore than one cellular carrier.

In certain embodiments, router device 14 may have multiple WAN/LAN/RJ-45ports for failover if a user wishes to directly connect to router device14. In certain embodiments, router device 14 may comprise a Gobi® radio

An antenna array 31 can be in electrical communication with routerdevice 14. Antenna array 31 can include one or more cellular antennas32, one or more wireless network (e.g. Wi-Fi®) antennas 34, and at leastone global positioning system (GPS) antenna 36 secured, retained within,or attached to an inside surface 13 of case 12. In certain embodiments,antennas 32, 34, and 36 of antenna array 31 may be attached to lidinside surface 13 b of lid 44, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 6. In otherembodiments, as shown in FIG. 12, antenna array 31 can be secured in,retained within, or attached to base 42 of case 12. In some embodiments,each antenna 32, 34, and 36 of antenna array 31 can be separatelymounted or attached within case 12, as shown in FIG. 1. In otherembodiments, each of the antennas of antenna array 31 can be containedtogether in an antenna housing 64, and antenna housing 64 can becontained within or attached to either base 42 or lid 40 of case 12 at asingle location, as shown in FIG. 12. The location of antenna array 31inside case 12 is beneficial because conventional, portable antennas aretypically located on the outside of a data communications unit, creatinga cumbersome device that is unaesthetically pleasing where the antennasare freely exposed to external wear, tear and breakage. In contrast,antennas 32, 34, and 36, as well as the other electrical components ofapparatus 10 are protected by case 12 when lid 44 is in the closedposition, which can help prevent damage to the integral electricaland/or communication components of apparatus 10. When lid 44 is in theclosed position, case 12 can enclose and protect power supply 24, routerdevice 14, and antenna array 31, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 7.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, two cellular antennas 32 are utilizedto cover frequencies across 700 and 800 MHz as well as all globalcellular frequencies from 698-960 MHz and 1710-2700 MHz. Cellularantennas 32 of the embodiment in FIG. 1 may require a ground plane. Forthe embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and discussed above, It has beendiscovered that vertical polarity cellular antennas requiring a groundplane may be particularly advantageous. Ground plane independentcellular antennas and horizontal polarity cellular antennas, however,may also be used in other embodiments. Cellular antennas 32 of theembodiment in FIG. 1 may allow for multiple user and multiple-input andmultiple-output (MiMo) applications. As shown in FIG. 9, cellularantennas 32 can be positioned at a cellular antenna separation distance54 from one another within case 12 to help reduce frequency interferencebetween cellular antennas 32. In one embodiment, cellular antennaseparation distance 54 is at least 12 inches.

In certain embodiments, GPS antenna 36, as shown in FIG. 1, can beincluded in the data communications case. In one embodiment, the GPSantenna has an operating frequency of 1575 MHz, but many other operatingfrequencies may be utilized. In one embodiment, GPS antenna 36 can havea low-noise amplifier gain of 26 decibels, and an impedance of 50 ohms.A plurality of GPS antennas may be used. The GPS antenna(s) may beactive or passive GPS antennas.

In certain embodiments, the wireless antennas 34, as shown in FIG. 1,have a frequency range of 2.4/5 GHz. In certain embodiments, thewireless antennas 34 enable multiple user and multiple-input andmultiple-output applications. In certain embodiments, a user may be ableto utilize a virtual private network (VPN) with any combination of themultiple wireless networks and/or any wired network port. In certainembodiments, more than two wireless antennas can be used to furtherincrease the capacity of the wireless network and to further supportMiMo applications.

Antenna cables 52 may connect various components inside the case 12 tothe antennas 32, 34, 36. The antenna cables 52 may be channeled througha conduit 51, which allows for discrete and organized bundling of theantenna cables 52 and other cables connecting components within thecase. Various components inside the case 12 may also be interconnectedwirelessly. It is advantageous to utilize cables having as short as alength as possible to avoid attenuation. It is also advantageous toutilize low attenuation cables.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 6, antennas 32, 34,36 are securely mounted within case 12 to lid inside surface 13 b of lid44. Apparatus 10 can include a plurality of mounting brackets 55 whichcan be adhered to lid inside surface 13 b. Each antenna 32, 34, and 36of antenna array 31 can be secured inside lid 44 to a correspondingmounting bracket 55. In some embodiments, each mounting bracket 55 canbe substantially L-shaped. A first bracket portion 55 a of bracket 55can be positionable substantially parallel to lid inside surface 13 b,first bracket portion 55 a being adhered to lid inside surface 13 b. Asecond bracket portion 55 b can extend away from lid inside surface 13 bwhen mounting bracket 55 is adhered to lid inside surface 13 b. Acorresponding antenna, shown as GPS antenna 36 (by way of example only)in FIG. 3, can be mounted to second bracket portion 55 b. In oneembodiment of the invention, second bracket portion 55 b may be shapedand sized to serve as a ground plane for any one or more than one of theantennas of the antenna array.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, each mounting bracket 55 caninclude at least one resilient polymer stud 56 having a stud length 59.Polymer studs 56 can be adhered to an inner surface 13 of case 12, andin some embodiments to lid inner surface 13 b, and to first bracketportion 55 a of a corresponding mounting bracket 55 such that mountingbrackets 55 are adhered to lid inner surface 13 b via polymer studs 56.Particularly, one end of each stud 56 can be adhered to lid innersurface 13 b, and an opposing end of each stud 56 can be attached oradhered to first portion 55 a of a corresponding mounting bracket 55. Insome embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, each mounting bracket 55 can havean internal grommet or hole within the first portion 55 a of mountingbracket 55 and each polymer stud 56 can have a threaded receptacle suchthat first portion 55 a of mounting bracket 55 can be secured to polymerstud 56 by a screw, bolt, or other suitable fastener 57. In someembodiments, a washer 53 can be positioned between mounting bracket 55and fastener 57 to help disperse the force of fastener 57 againstmounting bracket 55.

In other embodiments, one end of each stud 56 can be adhered to lidinner surface 13 b, and an opposing end of each stud 56 can be adheredto first portion 55 a of a corresponding mounting bracket 55. In stillother embodiments, each polymer stud 56 and corresponding mountingbracket 55 can be integrally formed together as one continuous orunitary piece.

In certain embodiments, studs 56 can have a circular longitudinal crosssection including a diameter of at least 0.5 inches and a stud length ofat least 0.5 inches. In some embodiments, studs 56 can have a diameterof about 0.825 inches and a length of about 1.25 inches. Studs 56 cantherefore extend inward from lid inner surface 13 b a distance of atleast 0.5 inches. Studs 56 can be comprised of a resilient polymercapable of dampening shock and vibration, such as polychloroprene. Incertain embodiments, each stud 56 may be secured to lid inner surface 13b of lid 44 by a structural adhesive 61, such as a structuralcyanoacrylate. One example of a suitable structural cyanoacrylateadhesive is BP Blue™, which can be purchased from Tech-Bond Solutions™of Columbus, Ohio. In certain embodiments, the opposite ends of eachstud 56 can also be secured to corresponding mounting brackets 55 via asimilar structural adhesive, such as the structural cyanoacrylatediscussed herein. While other mechanisms may be used to secure theantennas within case 12, structurally adhering studs 56 to correspondinginner surface 13 of case 12 via structural adhesives such as structuralcyanoacrylates can allow antennas 32, 34, and 36 to be secured withincase 12 without having to penetrate case 12.

Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 3, mounting brackets 55 used to secureantennas 32, 34, and 36 within case 12 should be configured to allow forsecure placement of antennas 32, 34, and 36 on corresponding mountingbrackets 55 via suitable antenna fasteners (e.g., screws, nuts, bolts)and to provide any necessary ground plane for antennas 32, 34, and 36.Mounting brackets 55 and the fasteners used to hold antennas 32, 34, and36 in place on corresponding mounting brackets 55 within case 12 mayinclude powder coated steel or stainless steel.

Mounting brackets 55 can be positioned at a predetermined distance awayfrom the inside of case 12 via polymer studs 56, in some embodiments adistance of at least 0.5 inches, such that antennas are located at asufficient distance from lid inner surface 13 b of lid 44 so that case12 may be comfortably closed, and so that antenna array 31 may haveunimpeded, open-air exposure when lid 44 is in the open position.Affixing antennas 32, 34, and 36 to mounting brackets 55 on innersurface 13 of case 12 can allow for case 12 to be waterproof anddustproof and can help reduce the problem of antennas 32, 34, and 36being easily dislocated or knocked off a data communications unit.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 8, Apparatus 10 can include a plurality offastening straps 26 adhered to case 12. Each of power supply 24, routerdevice 14, and power switch 22 can be secured within case 12 with atleast one corresponding fastening strap 26. Fastening straps 26 mayincorporate hook and loop fasteners, zippers, removable adhesives,buttons, snaps, clips, or any other suitable fastening members to securefastening straps 26 together around corresponding components ofapparatus 10 to secure the components within case 12. Fastening straps26 in some embodiments can include audible snap closures. Fasteningstraps 26 can be adhered or structurally bonded to either base 42 or lid44 as desired to secure the various components of apparatus 10 to eitherbase 42 or lid 44.

In some embodiments, fastening straps 26 may be sewn, adhered, orotherwise attached to corresponding polymer strips 60. Polymer strips 60can be adhered to inside surface 13 of case 12 by a polymer stripstructural adhesive 62 such as a structural cyanoacrylate. As such,fastening straps 26 can be adhered to case 12 via polymer strips 60. Apolymer strip structural adhesive 62 including a structuralcyanoacrylate can form a covalent bond between polymer strips 60 andinside surface 13 of case 12 to help provide a strong and reliableattachment of polymer strips 60 to case 12. Adhering polymer strips 60and fastening straps 26 to case 12 can help maintain the integrity ofcase 12 as polymer strips 60 and fastening straps 26 are not secured tocase 12 by mechanical fasteners such as screws or bolts that canpenetrate case 12.

In some embodiments, fastening straps 26 may be sewn to the polymerstrips 60 using sewing thread that meets or exceeds U.S. militaryspecifications. In other embodiments, fastening straps 26 can be adheredto polymer strips 60. In still other embodiments, the fastening straps26 may be adhered directly to inner surface 13 of case 12.

Polymer strips 60 may comprise polychloroprene, nylon-reinforcedpolychloroprene, or another suitable polymer. Polymer strips 60 made ofnylon-reinforced polychloroprene have been found to be particularlyadvantageous.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, router device 14, power supply24, and power switch 22 can be secured in base 42 via suitable fasteningstrips 26, and each antenna 32, 34, and 36 of antenna array 31 can besecured within lid 44 via a corresponding mounting bracket 55. In otherembodiments, as shown in FIG. 12, one or more of power supply 24 and/orrouter device 14 can be secured in lid 44 via fastening strips 26, andantenna array 31, positioned within antenna housing 64, can be securedwithin base 42 by fastening straps 26.

Referring again to FIG. 1, and also shown in FIG. 6, the communicationscomponents positioned within case 12 can be further secured andprotected within case 12 by a base foam cushion 65 positioned withinbase 42, and a lid foam cushion 69 positioned within lid 44. Foamcushions 65 and 69 can at least partially surround or support componentspositioned within base 42 and lid 44 respectively. Foam cushions 65 and69 can be oriented and shaped to allow a surface of respectivecomponents positioned in base 42 and lid 44 to be exposed when lid 44 isin the open position for ease of operation of apparatus 10, as shown inFIG. 1. In some embodiments, base foam cushion 65 and lid foam cushion69 can each include open cell foam having a foam density greater than orequal to 2 pounds per cubic foot. In some embodiments, base foam cushion65 and lid foam cushion 69 can each include open cell foam having a foamdensity greater than or equal to about 4 pounds per cubic foot.

In certain embodiments, apparatus 10 can include an additional removablecushion 75 placeable between lid 44 and base 42 when lid 44 is moved tothe closed position, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. Removable cushion 75 canhelp prevent interference and damage between components positioned inbase 42 and components positioned in lid 44 when lid 44 is moved to theclosed position. Removable cushion 75 can generally pad the componentscontained in case 12 when lid 44 is in the closed position.

Each of foam cushions 65 and 69 may include multiple layers in someembodiments. In certain embodiments, at least one of the foam layers ineach foam cushion 65 and 69 can have cutouts or recesses for receivingvarious components housed in case 12. In some embodiments, as shown inFIGS. 6 and 7, base foam cushion 65 can have a first base foam cushionlayer 66 and a second base foam cushion layer 68. First base foamcushion layer 66 can be positioned between second base foam cushionlayer 68 and base 42, and particularly a bottom of base 42. In someembodiments, first base foam cushion layer 66 can rest against thebottom of base 42 and second base foam cushion layer 68 can rest againstfirst base foam cushion layer 66 and can include one or more cutouts orrecesses for receiving the components positioned in base 42. In someembodiments, first base foam cushion layer 66 and second base foamcushion layer 68 can have varying foam densities, with the foam densityof second base foam cushion layer 68 being greater than the foam densityof first base foam cushion layer 66. For instance, first base foamcushion layer 66 in some embodiments can have a foam density betweenabout 1 and 3 pounds per cubic foot and second base foam cushion layer68 can have a foam density between about 3 and 5 pounds per cubic foot.In one embodiment, first base foam cushion layer 66 can have a foamdensity of about 2 pounds per cubic foot, and second base cushion layer68 can have a foam density of about 4 pounds per cubic foot. Cushioningfoam layers with varying densities can provide varying impactdissipation characteristics on the internal components of case 12 whencase 12 is dropped from a high distance or case 12 is otherwisesubjected to a large external force, to help protect the internalcomponents housed in case 12 from damage due to the external force.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, in some embodiments, the lid 44 contains alid foam cushion 69, albeit less thick due to the difference in depth ofthe cavities 15 a and 15 b between the base 42 and lid 44, respectively,shown in FIG. 6. Lid foam cushion layer 69 can help provide addedsupport, protection, and gravitational force deceleration forcomponents, including antenna array 31 in some embodiments, positionedin lid 44, in the event case 12 is dropped from a high distance orexposed to external forces. Lid foam cushion 69 of lid 44 can alsocontain cutouts or recesses for the exposure of components positioned inlid 44 of case 12 when lid 44 is in the open position. In someembodiments, as shown in FIGS. 6-7, lid foam cushion 69 positioned inlid 44 can include a first lid foam cushion layer 70 and a second lidfoam cushion layer 72. First lid foam cushion layer 70 can be positionedbetween second lid foam cushion layer 72 and lid 44, and particularlythe top of lid 44. First lid foam cushion layer 70 can be positionedagainst lid 44, and second lid foam cushion layer 72 can be positionedagainst first lid foam cushion layer 70, the second lid foam cushionlayer 72 including multiple cutouts or recesses for receiving componentspositioned within lid 44. In some embodiments, first and second lid foamcushion layers 70 and 72 can have varying foam densities, with secondlid foam cushion layer 72 having a foam density that is greater than thefoam density of first lid foam cushion layer 70. For instance, first lidfoam cushion layer 70 in some embodiments can have a foam densitybetween about 1 and 3 pounds per cubic foot and second lid foam cushionlayer 72 can have a foam density between about 3 and 5 pounds per cubicfoot.

Wireless power supply 24 may be used to power any component in case 12.In certain embodiments, wireless power supply 24 may be charged viaAC/DC adapter 16. Wireless power supply 24 in other embodiments can alsobe configured to receive a charge via a solar panel charger, a cigarettelighter adapter, or various other chargers and/or adapters known in theart. Power supply 24 may have additional output ports for charginglaptops, notebooks, notepads, cellular phones, etc. In certainembodiments, various adapters that allow for power to be supplied toother external components may also be housed within case 12 andconnected to power supply 24.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, base 42 can include acharging port 80 defined in a side of base 42. Charging port 80 can bepositioned such that a plug of AC/DC adapter can be received throughcharging port 80 and connected to power supply 24 positioned within case12. By having a charging port 80 defined in base 42 which can provideaccess to power supply 24, case 12 can be placed in a closed position aspower supply 24 and apparatus 10 are being recharged, which can helpsave space. In some embodiments, charging port 80 can include a smoothinner grommet which can provide a smooth internal contact surface as theplug of AC/DC adapter 16 is inserted through charging port 80, which canhelp prevent damage to AC/DC adapter 16.

In some embodiments, a plug access channel 82 can be defined in basefoam cushion layer 65 and particularly second base foam cushion layer68, plug access channel 82 providing access to power supply 24 fromcharging port 80 and through second base foam cushion layer 68. In someembodiments, apparatus 10 can include a charging port cap 84 which canbe pivotally attached to an exterior of base 42. Charging port cap 84can be rotated to an open position to provide access to charging port 80and power supply 24. Once charging of power supply 24 is complete,charging port cap 84 can be rotated to a closed position over chargingport 80 to block access to charging port 80. In some embodiments,charging port cap 84 can include an outer gasket or seal 86 which can bedisposed against base 42 around charging port 80 when charging port cap84 is in the closed position over charging port 80, gasket 86 forming aseal around charging port to help prevent liquids or other contaminatesfrom entering case 12 via charging port 80. In some embodiments,apparatus 10 can include a releasable fastener, such as snap fit member,a hook and loop fastener, buttons, snaps, hooks, clasps, etc., which canselectively retain charging port cap 84 in the closed position overcharging port 80.

Another embodiment of a data communications case 12, shown in FIGS.10-11, includes an antenna array 31 having a first pair 74 of cellularantennas 32, and a second pair 76 of cellular antennas 32. In someembodiments, first pair 74 of cellular antennas 32 can be positioned atleast 12 inches apart from one another within case 12, and second pair76 of cellular antennas 32 can be positioned at least 12 inches apartfrom one another within case 12, which can help reduce frequencyinterference between cellular antennas 32. In other words, cellularantenna separation distance 54 between first pair 74 of cellularantennas 32 can be greater than or equal to about 12 inches, and secondcellular antenna separation distance 77 can be greater than or equal toabout 12 inches. Each pair 74 and 76 of cellular antennas 32 can becapable of sending and receiving a signal across a cellular network,such that apparatus 10 of FIGS. 10-11 when used can accommodate cellularservice with two different cellular carriers.

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 12, antenna array 31 is contained in anantenna array housing 64 retained or secured to base 42 using one ormore fastening straps 26. Antenna array 31 and antenna array housing 64can also be described as being a singular antenna with multiple antennaelements. In one embodiment, the antenna housing 64 can contain fiveisolated high performance antenna elements, including two cellularantenna elements utilizing distinct wireless frequencies and supportingMiMo; two dual band wireless antenna elements supporting MiMo anddiversity operation for WIFI and WiMax wireless networks; and one GPSantenna element. In some embodiments, the antenna elements in antennaarray housing 64 can be ground plane independent such that antenna array31 can be positioned either in lid 44 or in base 42 of case 12, and theantenna elements can maintain a generally high performance even whenmounted on a non-metallic surface.

Having antenna array 31 compactly arranged within a durable case 12, andparticularly within a compact antenna housing 64, as shown in FIG. 12,can help reduce the space necessary to accommodate antenna array 31within case 12. As such, the overall size, weight, and profile of case12 can be reduced if desired. In some embodiments, the overall size ofcase 12 in FIG. 12 can be about 15 inches in length by 11 inches inwidth. Having a smaller overall size of case 12 can further help makecase 12 more convenient to transport. For instance, for a smaller officesetting where less communication capabilities are needed, case 12 ofFIG. 12 can easily be transported between various locations on site asdesired. Additionally, hospitals having nurses moving from room to roomand documenting patient status can carry a smaller case 12 with themsuch that they have wireless access with them at all times and canupdate patient records on a hospital network or system in real time asthey move from patient to patient. Similarly, traveling sales forces canconveniently carry a smaller case 12 with them to remote businessmeetings to ensure they have wireless and cellular service. Other usesand applications of the relatively smaller case of FIG. 12 will bereadily apparent to one of skill in the art.

In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 13, a GPS antenna can be removedfrom antenna array 31, and AC/DC adapter 16 can be positioned andretained on lid 44 such that the overall dimensions of case 12 can bereduced. AC/DC adapter 16 can generally be located in positioncorresponding to the location of the GPS antenna on lid 44 shown in FIG.1.

Another embodiment of a data communications apparatus 10 is shown inFIG. 16. In some embodiments, a second outer case 90 including a secondbase 92 and second lid 94 can be selectively enclosed around case 12.Second case 90 can provide an additional layer of protection for thecommunications components positioned within case 12. In someembodiments, one or more second case foam cushion layers can bepositioned in second case 12 and can surround case 12 when second case90 is in a closed position, as shown in FIG. 16. In some embodiments,second case 90 can include a first second case foam cushion layer 100, asecond second case foam cushion layer 102, and a third second case foamcushion layer 104. In some embodiments, second case 90 can also includea pressure release valve configured to release pressure inside secondcase 90 if the pressure rises above a predetermined threshold.

In some embodiments, first second case foam cushion layer 100 can have afoam density that is greater than the foam density of second second casefoam cushion layer 102, and second second case foam cushion layer 102can have a foam density that is greater than the foam density of thirdsecond case foam cushion layer 104. In some embodiments, the foamdensity of first second case foam cushion layer 100 can be between about3 and 5 pounds per cubic foot, the foam density of second second casefoam cushion layer 102 can be between about 2 and 3 pounds per cubicfoot, and the foam density of third second case foam cushion layer 102can be between about 1 and 2 pounds per cubic foot. In some embodiments,the foam density of first second case foam cushion layer 100 can beabout 4 pounds per cubic foot, the foam density of second second casefoam cushion layer 102 can be about 2.8 pounds per cubic foot, and thefoam density of third second case foam cushion layer 102 can be about1.8 pounds per cubic foot. Second case foam cushion layers 100, 102, and104 can be made from either open cell or closed cell foam materials. Insome embodiments, first second case foam cushion layer 100 can be madefrom closed cell foam, and second and third second case foam cushionlayers 102 and 104 can be made from open cell foam. While the embodimentshown in FIG. 16 shows three second case foam cushion layers, in otherembodiments, varying numbers of foam cushion layers can be implementedin second case 90.

Having a second protective case 90 with foam cushion layers can provideadditional protection to the communications components of case 12, whichcan be beneficial in emergency, military, or other situations where itmay be advantageous to drop apparatus 10 from a high altitude, forinstance when it is desirable to drop apparatus 10 from a helicopter.Having additional protection and foam cushion layers around thecommunications components of apparatus 10 can help absorb the impact asapparatus 10 is dropped from a higher altitude.

While FIGS. 1-16 show various components, including power supply 24,router device 14, antenna array 30, cellular antennas 32, wirelessantennas 34, GPS antennas 36, power switch 22, adapter 16, etc., invarious orientations and positions within case 12, base 42, and lid 44,each of the various components within case 12 can be positioned ineither base 42 or lid 44 of case 12. In some embodiments, a portion ofthe antennas in antenna array 30 can be positioned within base 42, and aportion of the antennas in antenna array 44 can be positioned in lid 44.Among other reasons, it may be advantageous to position the antennas ofthe antenna array in various positions within the case when usingdifferent size cases, due to varying numbers of different types ofantennas used, or to shorten cable length between the antennas and therouter device.

Another aspect of the present disclosure, shown in FIGS. 17-26, is adata communications system 100 for a vehicle 92 having an interior space92 a and an exterior surface 92 b. A support frame or housing 15 can beconfigured to mount inside the vehicle 92 or in the interior space 92 aof the vehicle 92. In some embodiments, a support frame 15 can beconfigured to mount to a dashboard, door, floorboard, or other portionof the vehicle chassis inside the vehicle. The support frame 15 can bemade from any number of suitable materials including but not limited toaluminum or steel and including aramid or para-aramid synthetic fibers,such as Kevlar. One or more components of the communications system 100can be positioned on the support frame 15. For instance in someembodiments, one or more of the router device 14, the power switch 22,the main and auxiliary fuses 18 and 20, the power supply 24, and/or thewireless antennas 34 can be mounted on the frame 15. As such, thecontrol for the communications system 10 can be positioned in theinterior of the vehicle and be accessible by a passenger or driver ofthe vehicle.

In some embodiments, router device 14 can be a dual modem capable routerdevice, such that router device 14 can be utilized with two modems tocreate multiple wireless networks. The router device may include aGobi-enabled chipset. In some embodiments, router device 14 can have abuilt in modem, and support frame 15 can be configured to hold a secondmodem either above or below router device 14 which can be connected torouter device 14 to enable multiple wireless networks. Wireless antennas34 in some embodiments can be mounted to the support frame 15 andconnected to router device 14 to send and receive wirelesscommunications.

In some embodiments, the support frame 15 can have a first power supplyslot 25 a and a second power supply slot 25 b defined in the frontsurface of the support frame 15. The communications system can includefirst and second power supplies 24 and 24 a, each power supply slot 25 aand 25 b being sized to receive a corresponding power supply 24 and 24a, respectively, in the support frame 15. The power supplies 24 and 24 acan be retained within slots 25 a and 25 b respectively by one or moreretention members. In some embodiments, the retention members can beadjustable straps 27 and/or one or more adjustable clamps 29 which canbe adjusted by the user to selectively secure or release the powersupplies 24 and 24 a from slots 25 a and 25 b respectively. Straps 27and clamps 29 can help prevent power supplies 24 and 24 a from slidingout of slots 25 a and 25 b respectively during movement, acceleration,and braking of the vehicle.

Case 12 of the data communications system 100 shown in FIGS. 23-26 canbe configured to be mounted to an exterior surface 92 b of the vehicle92. In some embodiments, the case 12 can be configured to be mounted toa top, side, front, or exterior bed of the vehicle 92. In someembodiments, the case 12 can include a mounting system 17 which canmount the case 12 to the vehicle 92. In some embodiments, the mountingsystem 17 can include a support plate 17 a secured to a bottom or top ofthe case 12. In some embodiments, the support plate 17 can be adhered,welded, or otherwise secured to the case 12 such that the integrity ofthe case is not compromised with holes or other perforations. Thus insome embodiments the components of the mounting system 17 can beconnected or mounted to support plate 17 a as opposed to case 12. Thesupport plate 17 a can be comprised of a number of suitable materials,including the same materials that comprise support frame 15.

One or more case rails 17 b can be secured or mounted to the plate 17 aon the case 12. In other embodiments, the case rails 17 b can bemounted, welded, or adhered directly to the case 12. Correspondingvehicle rails 17 c can be secured or mounted to the exterior surface ofthe vehicle 92. Once vehicle rails 17 c are mounted to the vehicle viaone or more bolts, screws, tap screws, magnets, welds, etc., case 12 canbe received onto vehicle rails 17 c via case rails 17 b. Each of caserails 17 b and vehicle rails 17 c can include one or more flanges withcorresponding holes. Holes on the flanges of case rails 17 b can bealigned with corresponding holes on the flanges of vehicle rails 17 c,and a securement pin 17 d can be inserted through the holes to securecase rails 17 b to vehicle rails 17 c. In some embodiments, the positionof case 12 on vehicle rails 17 c can be adjustable. When the securementpin 17 d is removed, case 12 can be slid off of vehicle rails 17 c suchthat case 12 can be selectively removed from the vehicle.

In other embodiments, the mounting system 17 can be any suitablestructure for securing or mounting the case 12 to the vehicle 92,including but not limited to, removable bolts, screws, fasteners,adhesives, snapfit or interference fasteners, etc. The mounting system17 can allow the case to be removed from the vehicle 92 such that case12 and other components of the data communications system 100 (i.e. thesupport frame 15 and related components) can be taken with the user oncethe user has reached a desired destination in the vehicle for continueduse of the data communications equipment.

An array of cellular antennas 31 can be mounted inside the case 12. Theantenna array 31 can include two or more cellular antennas 32 and atleast one gps antenna 36. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 24, theantenna array 31 can include four cellular antennas 32, or two pairs ofcellular antennas, and two gps antennas 36. With two pairs of cellularantennas 32 in the antenna array 31, the data communications system cansupport cellular service across two cellular networks. Each antenna ofthe antenna array 31 can be molecularly bonded to the case 12 viamounting brackets and a structural adhesive as previously describedherein, such that when case 12 is closed the case 12 can besubstantially liquid and dust proof. Antennas of the antenna array 31can be connected within the case 12 either to the base 42 or the lid 40of the case 12.

Antennas in the antenna array 31 within the case 12 can be electricallyconnected to the components inside the vehicle via electrical conduitsor cables 50. A conduit port 90 can be positioned on a side of the case12 and electrical conduits 50 can extend from the antenna array 31through the conduit port 90 and into the vehicle to connect to othercomponents of the communications system positioned on the support frame15 inside the vehicle. The electrical conduits or cables 50 in someembodiments can be extended or run through a window of the vehicle andbe secured along the chassis of the vehicle to retain the conduits 50out of the area occupied by the passengers or drivers of the vehicle. Inother embodiments, a conduit hole can be formed through the chassis orframe of the vehicle, and the electrical conduit 50 of thecommunications system can be run through the conduit hole in thevehicle.

As can be seen from FIGS. 25-26, the case 12 and associated componentscan be mounted to an exterior surface 92 a of the vehicle 92, and thesupport frame 15 and associated components can be mounted within theinterior space 92 b of the vehicle 92, the support frame 15 shownmounted to a dashboard of the vehicle 92 in FIG. 25. Electrical conduitsor cables 50 run between the case 12 and the support frame 15 toelectrically connect the components of the data communications system100. In other embodiments, components on the support frame 15 andcomponents within the case 12 can be communicated wirelessly.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 24, the case 12 can include asupport structure 94 which can be connected between the lid 40 and thebase 42 of the case. The support structure 94 can be expandable andcollapsible, the support structure 94 expanding when the lid 40 isopened, and collapsing when the lid 40 is closed. In some embodiments,the support structure 94 can be a plurality of support members pivotallyconnected together which can achieve a substantially straightenedorientation when the lid is opened and the support members are expanded.The support members in some embodiments can be locked in the straight orexpanded position as desired by the user. Such an orientation canprevent lid 40 from closing, for instance due to a wind or otherexternal force acting upon the lid 40, such as when the vehicle ismoving.

In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 24, the support structure 94 caninclude a hydraulic or pneumatic piston system. Hydraulic or pneumaticpressure within the piston system can resist closure of the lid system,or bias the lid towards the open position. The piston system can bedesigned such that when forces such as wind resistance are applied tothe lid, the lid remains in the open position. The resistance can beovercome by a manual force from the user to move the lid to the closedposition, where the case 12 can be locked in the closed position. Inother embodiments, the pressure within the piston system can beselectively released when the lid 40 is to be closed.

In some embodiments, the support structure 94 may include an actuatorthat is controllable remotely, such as from within the vehicle, so thatthe case could be opened and closed remotely. In some embodiments theactuator can be a motor or other mechanical device for moving componentsof the support structure, such as pivoting support members. In otherembodiments, the actuator can be a hydraulic or pneumatic pump andcontrol system for selectively providing and releasing pneumatic orhydraulic pressure within a piston to selectively open and close the lid44 on the case 12.

In some embodiments, the case 12 can include a rigid base liner 96 andrigid lid liner 98, as shown in FIG. 24. The rigid base liner 96 andrigid lid liner 98 can be connected to the base 42 and lid 44respectively, and the antenna array 31 and/or support structure 94 canbe connected to one or more of the rigid base liner 96 and the rigid lidliner 98. The rigid base liner 96 and rigid lid liner 98 can providestructural support for the internal components of the case, and can bemade from any suitable rigid material such as plastic, composite, metal,wood, etc.

Data communications systems 100 such as those shown in FIGS. 17-26 canbe used in a variety of vehicles, including military and emergencyservices vehicles, such as armored cars, military transport and attackvehicles, mobile emergency vehicles such as ambulances, police cars, andfiretrucks, as well as other suitable civilian vehicles.

It is contemplated that the size, shape, and configuration of the datacommunications case and its various components discussed herein maywidely vary. Thus, although there have been described particularembodiments of the present invention of a new and useful DATACOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE, it is not intended that suchreferences be construed as limitations upon the scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A data communications system for a vehicle havingan exterior surface and an interior space, the data communicationssystem comprising: a support frame positionable within the interiorspace of the vehicle; a case movable between an open and a closedposition, the case mountable to the exterior surface of the vehicle; apower supply positioned on the support frame; a router device connectedto the support frame and electrically communicated with the powersupply; and an antenna array mounted within the case, the antenna arraycommunicated with the router device, the antenna array including atleast two cellular antennas.
 2. The data communications system of claim1, further comprising at least one wireless networking antenna mountedto the support frame and electrically communicated with the routerdevice.
 3. The data communications system of claim 1, wherein theantenna array further comprises at least one GPS antenna mounted withinthe case.
 4. The data communications system of claim 1, furthercomprising a power switch mounted to the support frame and electricallycommunicated with the power supply.
 5. The data communications system ofclaim 1, further comprising at least one power supply slot defined inthe support frame, the power supply slot sized to receive the powersupply.
 6. The data communications system of claim 5, furthercomprising: a second power supply electrically communicated with therouter device; and a second power supply slot defined in the supportframe, the second power supply slot sized to receive the second powersupply.
 7. The data communications system of claim 5, further comprisinga retention member disposed on the support frame, the retention memberselectively retaining the power supply within the power supply slot. 8.The data communications system of claim 7, wherein the retention memberis an adjustable strap.
 9. The data communications system of claim 1,wherein the case further comprises a mounting system, the case mountableto the exterior surface of the vehicle via the mounting system.
 10. Thedata communications system of claim 9, wherein the mounting systemfurther comprises: a case rail mounted to the case; a vehicle railmountable to the exterior surface of the vehicle; and a securement pinextendable through the case rail and the vehicle rail to mount the caseto the exterior surface of the vehicle when the vehicle rail is mountedto the exterior surface of the vehicle.
 11. The data communicationssystem of claim 10, further comprising: a support plate adhered orwelded to the bottom of the case; wherein the case rail is mounted tothe case via the support plate.
 12. The data communications system ofclaim 10, wherein the securement pin is removable from the case rail andthe vehicle rail to remove the case from the vehicle.
 13. The datacommunications system of claim 1, further comprising a support structurecoupled between the lid and the base of the case, wherein the supportsystem selectively maintains the case in the open position.
 14. The datacommunications system of claim 13, wherein the support structureincludes a hydraulic or pneumatic piston unit.
 15. A data communicationssystem for a vehicle having an exterior surface and an interior space,the data communications system comprising: a support frame positionablewithin the interior space of the vehicle; a case movable between an openand a closed position, the case mountable to the exterior surface of thevehicle; a power supply positioned on the support frame; a router deviceconnected to the support frame and electrically communicated with thepower supply; at least one wireless networking antenna mounted to thesupport frame and electrically communicated with the router device; andan antenna array mounted within the case, the antenna array communicatedwith the router device, the antenna array including at least twocellular antennas and at least one GPS antenna.
 16. The datacommunications system of claim 15, wherein the case further comprises amounting system including: a support plate secured to the case; a caserail mounted to the support plate; and a vehicle rail mountable to theexterior surface of the vehicle, the vehicle rail and the case railsecurable with one another to mount the case to the vehicle.
 17. A datacommunications system for a vehicle having an exterior surface and aninterior space, the data communications system comprising: a supportframe positionable within the interior space of the vehicle; a casemovable between an open and a closed position, the case including amounting system, the case mountable to the exterior surface of thevehicle via the mounting system; a power supply; a router devicecommunicated with the power supply; and an antenna array mounted withinthe case, the antenna array communicated with the router device, theantenna array including at least two cellular antennas; wherein thepower supply and/or the router device are positioned on the supportframe.
 18. The data communications system of claim 17, wherein themounting system includes at least one case rail mounted to the case andat least one vehicle rail mountable to the vehicle, the at least onecase rail and the at least one vehicle rail securable together to mountthe case to the vehicle.
 19. The data communications system of claim 17,wherein the router device is mounted to the support frame, and theapparatus further comprises at least one wireless networking antennamounted to the support frame and electrically communicated with therouter device.